Only 'bendy buses' would fit down roads, according to development sceptic

A CAMPAIGNER has warned developers connecting roads to a proposed new development will not be able to handle bus traffic unless they live in a world of witchcraft and wizardry.

Steve Holmes of Stour Close in Dovercourt originally set up a website claiming the proposed £45million Harwich Valley development would turn the road, and adjacent street Clayton Road, into a rat run at essex-helpline.com.

Harding Estates confirmed their proposals would include a gate only allow buses and emergency vehicles through but Mr Holmes still has concerns.

“You would either need a bendy bus to get down Clayton Road or Stour Close or the Knight Bus from Harry Potter so obstacles can jump out of the way,” he said.

“Either that, or put double yellow lines on both sides of the roads.

“How long is it going to be before the barrier is removed? That would be my main fear."

Harding Estates said at a public meeting it would be up to Tendring Council to ensure the bus gate remained in place in years to come and would work together with the Highways Agency to ensure the roads were suitable for buses.

If given the go-ahead Harwich Valley would incorporate a supermarket, shops, a hotel, a pub, commercial space and a multiplex cinema on land between Stour Close and the A120 and create 1,200 jobs in the town.